Newcastle's streets fell silent as hundreds gathered to pay their respects to Police Constable Jess Turnbull, the young officer who lost her life in a tragic accident while on duty. The sombre occasion was a poignant reminder of the risks faced by those who serve and protect our communities, as mourners from across the UK attended her funeral service at Newcastle Cathedral.
Tragically, PC Turnbull had been deployed to the scene of a collision on the A189 Spine Road in Cramlington, Northumberland, on 8 June when she was struck by a car unrelated to the initial incident. She sadly succumbed to her injuries two days later, on 10 June, at Newcastle's Royal Victoria Infirmary.
The funeral procession, led by a police pipe band playing a poignant drum lament and 'Amazing Grace', made its way through Mosley Street, which was hushed in respect as officers in dress uniform lined the route. As the young officer's coffin, draped in a Union Flag and bearing a police hat, was carried into the cathedral by uniformed officers, attendees including Northumbria Police Chief Constable Vanessa Jardine paid their respects with a salute.
PC Turnbull's parents, in a statement, expressed their gratitude for the 'incredibly moving' full ceremonial honours, which provided them with 'great comfort during an unimaginably difficult time'. They added that 'to see the respect shown, and to feel the strength and support of the police family around us, is something we will never forget'. Chief Constable Jardine also commented, stating that Jess 'made the ultimate sacrifice in serving our communities'.
A preliminary inquest hearing revealed that PC Turnbull and a colleague arrived at the original collision scene at 23:26 BST to implement a road closure. Just eight minutes later, while she was outside the stationary police vehicle, she was injured when it was struck by another car. CPR was administered at the scene before she was transported to hospital. A 73-year-old man has been arrested on suspicion of causing death by dangerous driving and has been released on bail as police investigations continue.